Are raised food bowls safe for giant dogs, or do they cause bloat?

Question

I've read a study claiming that GDV chances are increased for giant breeds such as Bernese with raised feed bowls. What's the consensus regarding this and also are raised food bowls worth it for dog's health otherwise? Study I'm referring was published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association ("Non-dietary risk factors for gastric dilatation-volvulus in large and giant breed dogs") by Lawrence T. Gluckman et al. Pet's info: Dog | Bernese Mountain Dog | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 15 days old | 49 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

In veterinary school, I was taught as well the the risk of GDV was increased by feeding from raised food bowls. Given that Jasper is a giant breed dog, it's not worth the risk of feeding him from a raised bowl. A GDV is deadly, sometimes even with treatment, and it's best to avoid any risk factors to prevent it from happening. There is a preventative surgery you can do when he's older to keep it from happening. It's called a gastropexy, and it's when the dog's stomach is sutured to his thoracic wall. It does prevent the stomach from rotating on it's axis. You can see if this surgery is an option for Jasper by discussing it with your vet.

Are raised food bowls safe for giant dogs, or do they cause bloat?

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